Hathigumpha Inscription of Kharavela
By B. M. Barua
Summary
This lengthy paper presents a revised edition of the famous Hāthigumphā inscription of Khāravela, the third‑century BCE ruler of Kalinga. The author reviews earlier readings by scholars such as K.P. Jayaswal and Indraji and notes discrepancies in their interpretations. He then provides a transliteration and translation of each line of the seventeen‑line Prakrit inscription, which records Khāravela’s royal titles, building activities and military exploits. The inscription describes how the king repaired irrigation canals, enlarged caves at Udayagiri, and restored temples damaged by a cyclone. It recounts his campaigns against the Satavahanas, the Yavanas and the Tamil country and his triumphal return to his capital. The author discusses palaeographical features and argues that the inscription is one of the earliest raja‑prasaśtis (“royal eulogies”) in India. He addresses textual difficulties such as weathered letters, missing portions and ambiguous terms, offering emendations where necessary. Throughout, he critiques previous conjectures and suggests that certain words have been misread because of damage to the rock. The article concludes that the inscription provides valuable evidence for the chronology of early Indian dynasties and demonstrates the importance of Khāravela’s reign in eastern India.
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Conclusion
The revised edition of the Hāthigumphā inscription strengthens its position as one of the earliest royal eulogies in Prakrit and sheds light on Khāravela’s building projects and military achievements. By re‑examining weathered letters and offering judicious emendations, the author corrects earlier misreadings and clarifies references to irrigation works, cave improvements and campaigns against neighbouring kingdoms. The paper highlights the inscription’s importance for establishing the chronology of early eastern Indian dynasties and underscores Khāravela’s role in restoring religious monuments and public works. It remains a cornerstone document for students of early Indian epigraphy.